Thread: First time honing

Originally Posted by Avant

I did not use any type of magnification (where would be a good place to pick up one of those that would work well for a razor if you don't mind me asking), just followed the number of strokes on each stone in Lynn's video. I did not lap the stones before honing because they were brand new and did not think that I needed to. I lapped them afterwards but not before. The shave did start out better than what it finished but still did not start out that great. Sounds like you are correct that I need to find a mentor close to me in NC that could help. Someone showing me the process in person I know would go a lot further that reading the advice on here and trying to follow it. The advice I know is good but I do learn hands on quicker than I do any other way. Is there a link here on SRP that would help direct me towards a mentor. Thanks for the advice!

I really like the cheap magnifier from Radio Shack : Carson MM-200 MicroMax LED 60-100x Pocket Microscope : Magnifiers | RadioShack.com

Properly lap your stones and start over...then get back with me.

SRP Staff - Straight Razor Place Forum

You could also start a thread asking for help in your area. Don't do it in the beginners section, do it in the honing section.

I'd say for a first time effort that it sounds like you did pretty good.

Try going back to the 12K and do just 5-7 X strokes with no more pressure than the weight of the blade. Balance it on the stone so your stokes are even and then do 3-5 more strokes with the same pressure on the treated pad followed by another 50 on the strop and see if that improves the smoothness.

Good luck.